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W.A.S.T.E. - Warlord Mentality


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"Wow! This is really good!" - this was my first thought which came to my head after hearing the new W.A.S.T.E. album. But after consideration I've changed my opinion which was too quick - certainly - "Warlord Mentality" it is good to listen, but album is not innovative nor particularly special. It is a solid "single shot" title - and I think it should be treated like that. 

The odd thing about this is that the best moments of album have the biggest issues. It may sound strange - I agree - but these are facts. "Warlord Mentality" and its best moments, can be named as clear rip off from early Combichrist  - because - they simply sound like that. Another odd thing - it is not an accusation... Paradox? Indeed! 

It so happens that Vuxnut is well aware of his doings and knows that his accomplishments are mostly based on someone else's works. It seems that the main goal of this record is not be groundbreaking or making new fans but to provide new collage sounds to those who enjoy such collages or are just curious about them. In this role "Warlord Mentality" fits perfectly. 

My first contact with W.A.S.T.E. took place while I was listening the extended version "What the Fuck is Wrong With You, People?". Everyone who remember "Shut up and Bleed" is able - even now - to verify why it is worth to check this album. Many years has past since 2007 and Vuxnut is still the same. Those who don't  know early Combichrist (btw, is there anybody here?) I inform that "Warlord Mentality" is instrumental (mostly) harsh EBM. Luckily we have here some tracks with their own style but as I said before that what is best on "Warlords Mentality" have many problems. 

It's time to discuss this paradox on examples.  On the beginning I must say that on featured longplay the best tracks are 3, 5 and 7 which are above average. I will start from the end that means "Deadface" that stylistically balances between noise techno and EBM. Everything would be ok, but track number 7 reminds me of SHXCXCHCXSH that someone mixed with Combichrist's "AM". Perhaps it is exaggeration but I can't look at it in any other way. My statement may look as an accusation but it's not, and it is even some kind of praise. Ah, this art! 

Number 5 is the only track with classical vocal. "Gone Away" was recorded with Jamie Blacker, and it sounds like... harsh version of "Resonanace" from last full-fledged album of FLA! with overlaid vocal! The earlier comparison was quite bold, this one is reliable but still subjective. Anyway it sounds great - and we should stick to that. 

The last one, track three "Warlord Mentality", is the most memorable composition on this record. Harsh/ambient EBM with mysterious motive. If the album would be like that song probably it would be innovative and inspiring title. Atmosphere of this track shows the way which should be taken by other EBM musicians. However it is not free of limitations. I definitely do not like the intro - synthesizer is a little late to the rhythm which seems to be "broken". After the first minute everything is repaired, and track takes listener to the deep sad chasm. 

Summary? There is nothing to summarize - album like album - nothing special and it is not going to be world's bestseller. However it has some interesting tracks and for them it is worth to listen this position, but if you do not like early Combichrist - just leave it and do not bother with it.  

Tracklist:
01. Are We Just Animals
02. You Are Your Own Beast
03. Warlord Mentality
04. As The Empty Hours Go By
05. Gone Away feat. Jamie Blacker of Esa
06. Destroy What Destroys You
07. Deadface (Vuxnut Redux)
08. No More Feelings
09. Caveman
10. Kill Something
11. We Carry These Things Inside Of Us
12. Scream All You Want
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Translator: Toshiro
Add date: 2017-04-04 / Music reviews


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